British Flyball Association Annual General Meeting 2018 Summary

Transcription

1 British Flyball Association Annual General Meeting 2018 Summary Rule Proposals All proposals are listed in rule number order This summary is to enable members who did not attend the AGM to have an insight into the discussions surrounding the proposals. Please note that SEVEN proposals were amended during the course of the AGM, these are highlighted in yellow CONSTITUTION Proposal 1 8. General Meetings 8.3 An Adult Member may place an item of business on the agenda including any proposed rule change for a forthcoming Annual General Meeting by submitting the same in writing to the Secretary and the Secretary receiving the same not less than 30 days before the Annual General Meeting. Any person who has proposed a rule change should, if they are able, attend the Annual General Meeting in order to comment on any suggested amendment(s) to the proposed rule change. If they are unable to attend and the majority of attendees entitled to vote on the rule change suggest an amendment to the proposed rule change, the proposed rule change will not be put to a vote and will not be implemented. ADD Any AGM agenda items proposed which the BFA Committee consider to fundamentally change the current BFA flyball rules will be subject to a full impact assessment and may be referred for advice to the BFA Veterinary Advisor prior to implementation : This was unintentionally omitted in the transition of the rules to the new format. The committee feels this section in the rules protects the membership as a whole. Page 1 of 34

2 Discussion: no questions/comments RULES OF FLYBALL RACING A.1. Sanctioned Tournaments Proposal 2 1. Application Requirements 1.9 The Host Team must declare on their application REMOVE the ADD their intended maximum limit for entries (i.e. the maximum number of teams they are willing to accommodate) REMOVE as no extension will be given. The exception to this will be Tournaments that are held indoors or inside a marquee. ADD Tournament Organisers may request an extension to their tournament, regardless of surface, via the Show Secretary. Each request will be assessed individually and factors such as format, surface and proximity of other tournaments will be considered prior to approving an extension Proposed by The BFA Committee and Penny Charlton (BFA Committee) With the change in racing formats and surfaces over the last few years, it appears fairer to allow all Tournament Organisers to apply for an extension. Each individual application will be judged on its own merit. This will allow BFA members the opportunity to race on the surface and in the format of their choice without having to miss out due to a reserve list. (Penny Charlton) At present host teams cannot take any extra teams that wish to enter a show and have had all enquiries for extensions denied by the Committee. Surely if a host team feels they can cope with taking the extra numbers and have the space to put up another ring then I can t see why or who this affects. Surely this is in the best interest to the membership. When applying for a show you don t have any idea how many teams will wish to enter. If you ask for a 96 team limit you have to accept all teams entered and put up two rings. Sometimes you may only have an extra 6 teams entered after a 56 team limit, this means host teams have to put up an extra ring and endure extra costs for lights etc just for one extra division. By applying to the committee or the show secretary to be able to take all teams entered then this is in the best interest of flyball. I also cannot see the difference on allowing extensions for indoor shows and not outdoors ones. There are some outdoor venues that are as expensive as indoor ones, example Mapledurham use to cost me 1200 to hire and that was some 4 years ago so Page 2 of 34

3 will be more now. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 3 2. Tournament Organiser Responsibilities 2.7 ADD Indoor Tournament Organisers must provide weights (minimum of 15kg) to secure the flyball boxes per racing lane, for use by all teams as required. Proposed by Ryan Mills We have attended many shows where weights have not been provided, as a result of this boxes move making it unsafe for the box loaders and the dogs. This proposal means that every indoor tournament organisers have to provide weights for all racing lanes but it allows teams the choice if they use them or not. Discussion: asked about insurance if weights being lifted. Proposer stated the weights are to be provided but do not have to be used, wants dogs and boxloaders to be safe. all shows should have insurance which would cover for public liability. Suggested safe handling guide to lifting weights on notice board Proposal 4 5. Tournament Format 5.3 Double Elimination Competitions REMOVE This can be used if time does not permit the host Team to run round robin competitions. ADD An alternative format of racing which can be used by Tournament Organisers, often preceded by Speed Trials. Copies of the format forms for double elimination may be obtained from the Records and Statistics Coordinator. To allow teams more racing in double elimination tournaments, some teams have offered consolation rounds for those teams eliminated early. Consolation rounds can be round robin, single elimination or double elimination. ADD This may be adapted to include a single elimination final if the tournament organiser wishes. ALL variations in format shall be clearly marked on all tournament information (diary, schedule, running order etc) NOTE: Speed Trials are not a proper Tournament format on their own and can only be used as a preliminary to a Double Elimination. Proposed by The BFA Committee Page 3 of 34

4 By having a variety of racing formats available, this gives tournament organisers more flexibility in the way they host their tournaments Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal Duration of Racing REMOVE Round Robin Tournaments - The Organiser shall not expect more than 8 races per hour per ring. The Organiser shall not expect more than 75 races per ring in any one day, (5 divisions of 6) including starters. Sanctioned racing should take precedence over fun events at all times Double Elimination Tournaments - The Organiser shall not expect more than 8 races per hour (with the winner being determined in the best 3 out of 5 heats) per ring. ADD : The Organiser shall not expect more than 78 races per ring in any one day, including starters/intermediates, regardless of format. Sanctioned racing shall take precedence over fun events at all times. Proposed by The BFA Committee Due to the combination of round robin and speed trial/double elimination formats at Championship events, under current rules the double elimination racing needs to switch rings to ensure no more than 75 races are completed in one ring. By increasing to 78 races per day, all double elimination races will be able to be held in one ring for all three top divisions as well as three 6-team round robin divisions. This will make for better atmosphere at Championship events. (3 x 6-team divisions = 45 races, 3 divisions of DE = maximum 33 races) This rule has been condensed as there is no difference in number of races per ring regardless of format. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 6 7. Set Up 7.2 Backboards The host team shall provide a solid backboard (Approx. 24" high) 7ft, to a minimum of 5 where space is limited, from the front edge of the flyball box, in a horseshoe shape so that the backboard is no further forward than the box line. The total length of the backboard should be 24ft and can be in sections for ease of carrying/transporting. Page 4 of 34

5 Backboards 2ft high approx., 24ft in total length, may be in sections for ease of movement. ADD: The only equipment permitted within the backboard area during racing is the flyball box and any associated weights/fixation devices Proposed by The BFA Committee The area within the backboards are part of the racing lane and in bounds. This area should be kept clear to minimise distraction to the dogs and reduce hazards. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 7 This proposal was amended at the AGM 7.3 Jumps The host team shall provide two sets of identical Flyball jumps for the duration of the Tournament. Teams are asked to co-operate by lending equipment. The jumps shall be solid, white and are to have an inside width Remove: of 24" Add: of a minimum of 24" and maximum of 30", with posts neither more than 36" high nor less than 24" high. The outside of the posts may be painted any colour, but the edges must be white. Logos and/or lettering shall be permitted but limited to 4" x 20". The tops of the jumps are to be flexible / breakable AND protected at the front, top and back with foam or soft material (e.g. 15mm x 25mm water pipe insulation). The slats (not baseboard) shall be clearly marked with their size. Proposed by Liz Adamson As we now allow the use of wider (up to 30" wide) boxes, it would seem sensible to allow for matching wider jumps for those teams who choose to use the bigger boxes. It would seem to defeat the dog welfare purpose, of allowing bigger dogs more space on the box, just to take it away again by making them over rotate off the box to pull themselves into the narrower jumps. Page 5 of 34

6 Discussion: regards jump width, is it really dog safety, concerns re going from is going to cause more hazards than will fix, 3 crashes in last 7 years, seen dogs cross within 24 dogs, see jumps knocked down more frequently, is it safety? We need to be doing for the right reasons. If minimum of 24 or max 30 needs to be fixed rather than adjustable. If goes through, would like to see not implemented immediately as only a few people make jumps. we need it to be fixed width, worried about pulling dogs in is a training issue dog confidence if passing within jumps, less confident dogs would run out, wider jumps may make it harder for a less confident dog to run out If wider then slats go wider and if slats ping out then bigger space for dogs to get legs stuck in. Is it worth the risk? We ve seen the wider slats pinging 30 with 12 centre would be problematic as there would be no run out space for dogs with lights in centre of race lanes. Sensors would need to be adjusted? Runs a larger dog that takes most of the lane, feels wider jumps would be better for dogs to be able to pass no right or wrong answer. What about doing a study/pilot to see what would work, what wouldn t? Working party to get it right first time. doing flyball for 10 years, seen one collision over a jump but seen 2 of her dogs have a collision in the start gate at 4 wide. Where do we draw the line? would there be a possibility of an amendment to set the width rather than adjustable? main objection to the change isn t the width but the surface area. 30 increased the size of slat by 25%, indoors not so much a problem, outdoors more of a problem, jumps may be pegged if so unstable and this is much more of a hazard. Cost issue to all TOs and clubs. Every club has to change jumps jumps being changed and cost implication should not be a consideration if regarding dog safety any evidence that it is safer? LA no but have seen more than one crash finances shouldn t be an issue with regards to dog safety. We need to make sure that we do it right first time before spending money and realising it wasn t the right thing to do concerns about weight of jumps. More crashes in start gate than in the lane, slats pinging out and catching legs within slats, jumps falling on dogs would be a concern. Would like a study done,?call upon vet advisor LA are you happy to amend to change jump to fixed 30 jumps? LA YES can we change the proposal that much? A yes as the proposer is present Reworded proposal 7.2 Rule proposal: Jumps The host team shall provide two sets of identical Flyball jumps for the duration of the Tournament. Teams are asked to co-operate by lending equipment. The jumps shall be solid, white and are to have an inside width Remove: of 24" Add: of 30", with posts neither more than 36" high nor less than 24" high. The outside of the posts may be painted any colour, but the edges must be white. Logos and/or lettering shall be Page 6 of 34

7 permitted but limited to 4" x 20". The tops of the jumps are to be flexible / breakable AND protected at the front, top and back with foam or soft material (e.g. 15mm x 25mm water pipe insulation). The slats (not baseboard) shall be clearly marked with their size. Rewording read out and agreed by proposer A.2. Rules for Competition Proposal 8 This proposal was amended at the AGM 2. Membership Only BFA Members are allowed in the ring during the racing of open and multi-breed competitions. Alcohol REMOVE and smoking of tobacco products (including electronic/vaping type cigarettes) is not permitted in the flyball ring during competitions. ADD Smoking of tobacco products (including electronic/vaping type cigarettes) is not permitted in or within six feet of the flyball ring during competitions. Proposed by Emma Foxton Addition of no smoking within a specific perimeter of the ring to protect people competing and spectating who have conditions which would be aggravated by the smoke/vapour. Discussion: the problem with 6 is that smoke / vapour are airborne and carried by the wind into the ring anyway. Suggest an amendment not permitted where it will blow into the ring can t see how it can be policed, how can you stop someone smoking next to the ring? the same as you stop people in public places don t think you can do as suggested as the wind might change direction or start blowing. How do you police as a big outdoor show? as a smoking member it is about being a responsible, considerate smoker. Previously had smoking circles for smokers to go to concentrating on rings but many smoke at presentation designated smoking area as a smoker I take myself out of the way, we mentioned a designated area but will it start to affect camping areas if people complain? Suggest a designated distance from the ring and no smoking at presentation. Distance and designated area would be people be happy to have a designated area? Page 7 of 34

8 if designated area it probably won t go through as people will feel aggrieved at having to leave racing. A designated distance As a vaper (ex-smoker) it would be hard for me to stand with the smokers would EF be happy to change to within ring? doesn t mention presentation in this part of the rule. Could be on TO schedule why not just within or around the ring nothing to stop TOs putting their own rules in the schedule Rule amended as below by EF Reworded proposal Only BFA Members are allowed in the ring during the racing of open and multi-breed competitions. Alcohol REMOVE and smoking of tobacco products (including electronic/vaping type cigarettes) is not permitted in the flyball ring during competitions. ADD Smoking of tobacco products (including electronic/vaping type cigarettes) is not permitted in or within 15 feet of the flyball ring during competitions. Rewording read out and agreed by proposer Proceed to vote Proposal 9 5. Teams 5.4 A dog may change teams at any time to compete with another ADD BFA registered primary team, but after this change it may not change teams again for a period of 6 months (e.g. a dog races with Team A on 1 st April 2016 so it is free to race with Team B on 1 st October 2016). The owner/handler must inform the membership secretary of any such change. The only exceptions are: a. REMOVE Multiple entries of the same Team Registration Number. b. A dog prohibited from competing with an existing Team. c. The handler/dog has moved to another area and their previous Team accepts the transfer. d. Their previous Team has dissolved, and the Membership Secretary has been informed. e. If a new team is formed and dogs are transferred to this team then these dogs may not be released from this team for a period of 6 months. ADD: All requests to move a dog from one primary team to another within 6 months shall be ed to the BFA secretary with reasons for the request to move. Proposed by The BFA Committee Page 8 of 34

9 To bring clarity to the rule and ensure consistency in the process when dogs move teams. This will ensure that dogs are registered to the new team in a timely manner and the website and subsequent databases are updated accordingly. Discussion: when does the 6 months start? Is it from when a dog gets points? when the dog is on a team sheet. as ex-membership sec/ex-committee. It was always intended the individual contacted the membership secretary to inform them of the move and the six months started then Validation check on website will only pick up on when the dog has raced. Proposal REMOVE A BFA Registered team must comprise all BFA Registered dogs and all handlers of these dogs must be current members of the BFA. ADD At a tournament, each team shall consist of a minimum of four dogs and a maximum of six dogs; a current BFA member responsible for each dog; and a current BFA member as box loader. The dogs must be eligible to run for that team. MOVED from 6.2 Each team is to have four dogs running in each heat, with a maximum of 2 alternates as standbys close at hand. The alternates may be used at the team's discretion or in the case of any injury. REMOVE 6.2 Each team is to have four dogs running in each heat, with a maximum of 2 alternates as standbys close at hand. The alternates may be used at the team's discretion or in the case of any injury. Proposed by Emma Foxton To bring the rules up-to-date with the changes made to the website and improved validation checks when awarding points. To move rules into a more logical section. Discussion: if I have two dogs who normally share a spot would not be able to have me as handler for both all it says is responsible member, no change to rule, just moved from a different area. Page 9 of 34

10 Proposal Time sheets Remove 6.1 At a tournament each team shall consist of a minimum of 4 dogs and a maximum of 6 dogs; a BFA member responsible for each dog and a BFA member as box-loaders. The dogs must be eligible to run with that team. The dogs and responsible members shall be declared on the C2 Timesheet prior to the start of racing of the Division. When a team reports for racing only those dogs declared shall enter the ring, each accompanied by a BFA member to hand or to hold the dog. In addition to the handlers/holders and the box-loader a team may at their discretion be accompanied by team members to pick up loose balls, set up knocked down jumps collect times, record changeovers and any other relevant jobs to the team, provided doing so does not interfere with the Judges, or the opposing team. Members of the team who do not have a job may be asked to leave the ring by the Judge. (there is a separate proposal to move this to A.2.5) Add 6.1 The timesheet (BFA form C2) must be completed and returned to the Tournament Organiser before the start of racing in the division in which the team is seeded. 6.2 Details on the C2 timesheet cannot be changed once the division, in which that team is racing, has begun. 6.3 The team or divisional breakout shall be included on the C2 timesheet, if applicable. 6.4 The following information shall be recorded on the C2 timesheet, all information shall match the information held on the BFA website: Team's name and number (TRN) The captain's name and BFA number Each dog's name, BFA number, registered breed and height Each handler's name and BFA number (Handlers must be current BFA members and can be from any primary team) Box loader's name and BFA number (Box loaders must be current BFA members and can be from any primary team) 6.5 It is the responsibility of the team captain, or a representative of the team captain, to ensure that all information on the C2 timesheet regarding their team is correct." Proposed by Emma Foxton To bring the rules up-to-date with the changes made to the website and improved validation checks when awarding points. Discussion currently all C2s are returned before racing starts, this states division. Explained that this has not changed from current rule. Page 10 of 34

11 we don t always have a set boxloader. clarified it is your intended boxloader small team, 5 dogs and handlers and often a handler ends up being boxloader when their dog isn t racing clarified this is ok to have boxloader and handler as same person part of the rule states C2 details cannot be changed. need to go to HJ to change putting boxloader on is a validation check, where do you stop? Line person, video, ball shagger? boxloader is a necessary member of the team Proposal At a tournament each team shall consist of a minimum of 4 dogs and a maximum of 6 dogs; a BFA member responsible for each dog and a BFA member as box-loaders. The dogs must be eligible to run with that team. The dogs and responsible members shall be declared on the C2 Timesheet prior to the start of racing of the Division. When a team reports for racing only those dogs declared shall enter the ring, each accompanied by a BFA member to hand or to hold the dog. MOVE to 5.9 In addition to the handlers/holders and the box-loader, a team may at their discretion be accompanied by team members to pick up loose balls, set up knocked down jumps collect times, record changeovers and any other relevant jobs to the team, provided doing so does not interfere with the Judges, or the opposing team. Members of the team who do not have a job may be asked to leave the ring by the Judge. 6.2 Each team is to have four dogs running in each heat, with a maximum of 2 alternates as standbys close at hand. The alternates may be used at the team's discretion or in the case of any injury. (there is a separate proposal to move this rule to 5.5) 6.3 The Time Sheet (BFA Form C.2) be completed and returned for checking before the division, in which the team is running, starts and shall include the team name and registration number, the team captain s name and BFA number, each dog s name, BFA number, breed, and jump height, together with each handlers name and BFA number. It shall also record the relevant teams break-out time (if applicable). MOVE to 5.11 Forfeiting teams may be declared NFC or be excluded from the tournament by the Head Judge/Tournament Organiser. 6.4 MOVE to 5.10 For multiple entries of the same team once any of their teams has started racing in the tournament there will be no switching of dogs from one team to another once the division begins. Add 5.9 In addition to the handlers/holders and the box-loader, a team may at their discretion be accompanied by team members to pick up loose balls, set up knocked Page 11 of 34

12 down jumps collect times, record changeovers and any other relevant jobs to the team, provided doing so does not interfere with the Judges, or the opposing team. Members of the team who do not have a job may be asked to leave the ring by the Judge For multiple entries of the same team once any of their teams has started racing in the tournament there will be no switching of dogs from one team to another once the division begins Forfeiting teams may be declared NFC or be excluded from the tournament by the Head Judge/Tournament Organiser. Proposed by Emma Foxton To bring the rules up-to-date with the changes made to the website and improved validation checks when awarding points. Discussion: no questions/comments. Simply a move of a rule to make more chronological Proposal Protests 11.3 The Tournament Organiser should submit all correspondence on the protest to the BFA Secretary within 14 days of the Tournament. The BFA Secretary shall then inform the BFA Committee, who would decide whether or not the nature of the protest should be dealt with as per Rule Remove Section 3.1(c) Add F.1.3 or be resubmitted in accordance with Remove Section 3.4 (a) Add F.4.1, and in this case the time limit would be extended by a further 14 days from the date of notification to the member after the committee's decision Proposed by The BFA Committee Correction of references following reordering of rules Discussion: no questions/comments A.3. Rules of Racing Proposal 14 This proposal was amended at the AGM 4. The Run - Each dog is to ADD pass through the start/finish gate, hurdle the four jumps in succession, trigger the box ADD to release the ball, and return over all four jumps and ADD pass through the start/finish gate, with the ball in its mouth. During the return run a Page 12 of 34

13 dog may retrieve a dropped ball without penalty, (even if this means jumping more than four jumps on the return run). Proposed by The BFA Committee To bring clarity to the rule that each dog must pass through the start/finish gate on both its outward and return run. Also, the dog must trigger the box to release the ball, not steal the ball and then trigger on its return. Discussion does the dog have to trigger with it s front feet or back feet? as long as the dog triggers to release the ball it is unlikely to do this with it s back feet. feels the rules should stay as it is the start line is an infinite line. the difference between indoor and outdoor racing means that the start line is not consistent. Indoor between sensors, outdoors the width of the ring the white line is there to judge spat balls no current light system is going to judge a spat ball. Line judge is always going to have to call if a dog runs out and whether the incoming dog was early an unfair advantage as if the first dog doesn t come through the start gate then the rest of the team can t run so can rest their dogs. as long as the dog which has run out passes the gate the next dog can go need line in as well. Clarified that line is in the next sentence if lights fail and no gates. Advised would use something alternate (stakes etc) as gates. Proposal reworded and agreed by proposer Reworded proposal 5. Amended: The Run - Each dog is to ADD pass through the start/finish gate, hurdle the four jumps in succession, trigger the box ADD to release the ball, and return over all four jumps and REMOVE the start/finish line ADD pass through the start/finish gate, with the ball in its mouth. During the return run a dog may retrieve a dropped ball without penalty, (even if this means jumping more than four jumps on the return run). Proposal The Run - Each dog is to hurdle the four jumps in succession, trigger the box, and return over all four jumps and the start/finish line, with the ball in its mouth. During the return run a dog may retrieve a dropped ball without penalty, (even if this means jumping more than four jumps on the return run). Only when the first dog has reached the start/finish line with any part of its body may the second dog reach that line with any part of its body (generally this is a nose to nose pass at the start/finish line) and so on for all four dogs, as well as dogs that must run again. Early passes will be indicated by the Line Page 13 of 34

14 Judge and the dog will be required to run again after the other dogs have run. Dogs that are faulted for any reason must be re-run in the order that they were faulted. If a dog reaches the start/finish line before the preceding dog has reached the start/finish line or does not take every jump, or does not trigger the box and take the ball from the cup, or does not return with the ball, the dog must run again. If any part of the handler s body or associated objects crosses the start/finish line during his/her dog s run the dog must run again (with the exception of setting up a knocked down jump or retrieving a loose ball). When electronic changeover lights are used any part of the outgoing dog s body breaking the beam before any part of the returning dog s body will cause an infringement to be called by the Line Judge. For each heat, jump heights shall be set at the Jump height of the smallest dog (running, not standing by), as recorded on the Team s Time Sheet for competing dogs, with a minimum of Remove 7 ADD 6" and a maximum of 12, this height to include any protective materials. Proposed by Lucy Machell-Webb 1) At the decrease from 14 to 12 there were a lot of thoughts that this would devalue our height dogs. The argument put forwards was mainly that the effect of 14 inches could affect gait and striding of a large dog. With a large number of our height dogs also potentially seeing this problem over their own height I think we should take into account their striding and gait. That a lower jump height may potentially allow smaller breeds to single stride over double striding in a more comfortable jumping style. (can provide diagram) 2) We have allowed for many changes to help large breeds of dogs to play safely, larger boxes etc, but not much emphasis has been put on the welfare of our smaller breeds such as Jack Russels who would be constantly putting in extra effort to jump over their height. Many smaller breeds would be recognised as 6 height dogs if it were available and would be much more comfortable at this height. 3) Our height dogs make up a large percentage of our active racing dogs. They are usually the one dog in the team that runs all day over their own height, I feel this is a strong reason to try and protect their welfare and improve their jumping pattern if we can, especially for the short-legged breeds. Discussion: concerns about integrity of the jump, stability asked why extra strengthening needed. A - it is a modification that you could add for more stability. Q - can t tell if the stability is because of the blocks as not the same on both jumps, only on 24 wide concern is dropping the height by another 1 affects every single dog in the association. The other proposal about dropping main height. Agility has set heights and if dog is not able to jump then it does not compete. Asked if proposer would be happy to have a trial/assessment period. Proposer doesn t think necessary stated that this proposal does not affect all dogs, only the small dogs Page 14 of 34

15 Current baseboards are 5.5, if this goes through the baseboards would have to be 4.5, the 6 jump wobbles more and there are 2 jump makers in the room who cannot agree So dog welfare will support this rule. We are penalising the very small dogs, not accepting them into the sport. We keep reducing the height for bigger dogs not penalising, people run their dogs knowing the minimum height is 7. If the dog can t meet the height, should they do the sport? inclusivity is a big thing in our sport, agrees we can t keep reducing the height down. Has a dog who would measure 5, only trained at 6 as will run out over 7. stability for racing more of a concern outdoors, consider the ground whether at 7 or 6 the jumps may be blown over. Reducing the jumps will benefit the smaller dogs for a change. if dog can t comfortably clear 7 it shouldn t be doing flyball. I don t like FH dogs over 14 but don t think 12 is enough. If can run over 12 and not need a height dog, what is the value of height dogs. You need a balance. Feel we should have to have a height dog that is capable of running over the jump contradicted himself, states if a small dog can t clear 7 but then says he doesn t like dogs over 14. if last div, 7 dog might be running over theoretically higher height if there are grooves in the floor where do we draw the line? Next year someone might come along with a smaller dog jumps look relatively stable, personally wouldn t put some dogs over 6, Chihuahua who would measure 4.5 but can clear 7 without a problem. the teams considering dropping heights, have they considered changing the holes on the box height dog brings the jumps down for bigger dogs. If they can prove jump stable then why not keep reducing height. Small dogs lose momentum in the way they jump. look at jumps and where they are cut makes the weak point, if the uprights slide over a solid baseboard, rather than the baseboard slotting in, the weak point is not there If voted in this rule would also affect the following rule A.1. Sanctioned Tournaments 7. Set Up 7.3 The host team shall provide two sets of identical Flyball jumps for the duration of the Tournament. Teams are asked to co-operate by lending equipment. The jumps shall be solid, white and are to have an inside width 24", with posts neither more than 36" high nor less than 24" high. The outside of the posts may be painted any colour, but the edges must be white. Logos and/or lettering shall be permitted but limited to Remove 4" Add 3 x 20". The tops of the jumps are to be flexible / breakable AND protected at the front, top and Page 15 of 34

16 back with foam or soft material (e.g. 15mm x 25mm water pipe insulation). The slats (not baseboard) shall be clearly marked with their size. If both parts of rule A.3.4 are voted in the rule will look as follows: 4. The Run - Each dog is to pass through the start/finish gate, hurdle the four jumps in succession, trigger the box to release the ball, and return over all four jumps and pass through the start/finish gate, with the ball in its mouth. During the return run a dog may retrieve a dropped ball without penalty, (even if this means jumping more than four jumps on the return run). Only when the first dog has reached the start/finish line with any part of its body may the second dog reach that line with any part of its body (generally this is a nose to nose pass at the start/finish line) and so on for all four dogs, as well as dogs that must run again. Early passes will be indicated by the Line Judge and the dog will be required to run again after the other dogs have run. Dogs that are faulted for any reason must be re-run in the order that they were faulted. If a dog reaches the start/finish line before the preceding dog has reached the start/finish line or does not take every jump, or does not trigger the box and take the ball from the cup, or does not return with the ball, the dog must run again. If any part of the handler s body or associated objects crosses the start/finish line during his/her dog s run the dog must run again (with the exception of setting up a knocked down jump or retrieving a loose ball). When electronic changeover lights are used any part of the outgoing dog s body breaking the beam before any part of the returning dog s body will cause an infringement to be called by the Line Judge. For each heat, jump heights shall be set at the Jump height of the smallest dog (running, not standing by), as recorded on the Team s Time Sheet for competing dogs, with a minimum of 6" and a maximum of 12, this height to include any protective materials. JUDGING AND RING PARTY Section B Proposal 16 B.3. Divisional Judge 1. Qualifying process 1.1 To become a Qualified Judge, individuals must: b. Must be in good standing with the BFA for a minimum of Remove: 18 months Add: 36 months Proposed by The BFA Judges Board Page 16 of 34

17 To gain more experience in flyball and also to ensure that members has the best interest of the BFA and abiding by the rules set out by the BFA before applying to become a judge. Discussion Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 17 d. Have completed a minimum of 5 assignments as Line Judge, Box Judge and Scribe for a minimum of 12 races. Add: Only one assignment of Box Judge, Line Judge and Scribe can be signed off by a judge from your own team. At least 2 of each assignment shall be directly supervised by a Head Judge or Judges Board Member. If a candidate is considered Not Ready for Provisional Judge status, further ring party assignments can be requested. Proposed by The BFA Judges Board We like to see different judges signing logbooks and give different comments and to give you advice when judging Discussion when a small team it can sometimes be difficult to have different judges as always down for own team judge as ring party we have 3 QJs in our team and it might be difficult to have PJs get logbook signed. states that can RP for other teams ask HJ to watch and sign received a message from a member asking to do RP for her in advance of competition. As ex- JB member, the JB need to see comments from several different people to ensure the candidate has more experience, see the same comments from the same people does not help the JB make a decision Proposal 18 B.5. Measuring Official 1. Qualifying process 1.1 Measuring Officials are qualified to measure dogs in accordance with the BFA Rules. To become a Measuring Official, individuals must be at least 18 years old; have been a BFA member for at least 3 years; have competently carried out dog measuring Page 17 of 34

18 including the setting up of the measuring equipment, in the presence of two Head Judges, or Measuring Officials, on 5 separate occasions where they must measure at least 20 dogs in total, including at least 4 different breeds. ADD Once the application form is completed this must be sent to the BFA judges board to be approved. Once approved an exam is to be arranged and passed before the logbook will be issued. Proposed by The BFA Judges Board Applicants apply to the judges board to become a measuring official Discussion: no questions/comments MEASURING PROCESS Section C Proposal 19 This proposal was amended at the AGM C.1. Dog master Height List requirements 1.3 A dog must have three measures recorded at the same height, one of which must be its final measure, before an Official height on the Dog Height Master Sheet can be recorded. ADD The final measure must be video recorded and then submitted to the judges board, for future reference. Proposed by The BFA Judges Board To reduce challenging of the dogs height and to support measuring officials Discussion Judges Board suggested reword immediately. We don t want to dwell on the past but need to learn from the past. Reworded proposal A dog must have three measures recorded at the same height, one of which must be its final measure, before an Official height on the Dog Height Master Sheet can be recorded. ADD One of these measures must be video recorded and then submitted to the judges board, for future reference. Page 18 of 34

19 agree with proposal but who will be responsible for the videoing who will be review the videos? If JB are they all MO/HJ Yes carry lights and a laser, would need to then be issued with a GoPro. Who is responsible for downloading the video? If lights custodian then concerns around not always getting measuring equipment back, losing SD card, just things to consider. would this need to be done for all dogs who have a height card? Answer no, just for those who are still going through process would like to see an amendment that the camera should be fixed in order to not have any variation in video angles when filming what if borderline measure? Measure recorded is 8 but it ends up getting a 7 card there is possibility of challenge video for checking and reference in case of future complaint. We are speaking too much about details when this is really about voting yes or no to the video being taken. Reworded proposal accepted by proposer Proposal A dog must have three measures recorded at the same height, one of which must be its final measure, before an Official height on the Dog Height Master Sheet can be recorded. ADD and a height card will be issued. Proposed by The BFA Judges Board It is easier to ask the handler for a height card than looking though the height master sheet list, when a dog height is queried when racing. Discussion 1 SA clarified that this is simply about whether we want height cards back 2 If a height is challenged and you can t access master sheet then how do you check? CB Record sheet states height card should be produced. 3 Vote If both parts of rule C.1.3 are voted in the rule will look as follows: A dog must have three measurements recorded at the same height, one of which must be its final measure, before an official height on the dog height master sheet can be recorded and a height card will be issued. The final measure must be video recorded and then submitted to the judges board, for future reference. Page 19 of 34

20 Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal The dog s height must be agreed by two Head Judges / Measuring Officials on each occasion and by at least four different Head Judges/Measuring Officials by its required final measurement. ADD Measures done by a member of the dog s team shall not count towards an entry on the Master Height Sheet, but shall be valid for the day s racing only. Proposed by The BFA Committee There is a potential conflict of interest when a Measuring Official/Head Judge is measuring a dog which races with their own team. We expect impartiality during the measuring process but to reduce the manipulation of this, the measure will be valid for the tournament the dog is measured at but not towards the entry on the Height Master List. The C9 form will be updated accordingly should this rule be passed Discussion: concerns regarding Scottish teams as not many measurers it won t work in Scotland English teams travel to Scotland and vice versa. Don t have to be measured at a tournament Proposal Jump height recorded on the C.9 is the height of the dog from the ground to between its withers Remove 5 Add 6 Proposed by Lucy Machell-Webb When the minimum jump height was reduced to 12 inches from 14, many height dogs running at 12 and 13 inches were no longer deemed height dogs. Approximately 14 percent of dogs who had previously been 12/13 height dogs, are now having to race equally with their larger counterparts. To level the playing field and help these in between size dogs we would see 12 height dogs return as 11 dogs. Although unfortunately this would not make a difference to previous 13 dogs I feel it would be a good compromise. Page 20 of 34

21 This change also means that all existing height dogs currently measuring below 12 inches at the whither, will drop by an inch. I believe this to be fairer since the maximum jump height was reduced to assist larger dogs, with their gait effect being the reasoning, yet no change was made to assist the height dogs who are at the end of the day, the ones jumping their own height. I think it s unfair to benefit all dogs measuring over 11 inches by a significant 2 inch height decrease and to not consider the height dogs. It s my opinion that a one inch decrease for all height dogs is a fair compromise to revalue our height dogs. Although the BFA is its own organisation, we run our association in line with NAFA who are receiving great feedback to a 6 below the withers proposal in its survey period. By moving to make the change in the BFA, it ensures we remain current with the number one world leader in international flyball as well as being at the forefront of modernising british flyball. Discussion do all dogs who measured 12 or more need to be measured? Clarified that any dog who did not have 3 measures at the same height would need to be continued to be measured Much of this discussion was included in proposal 15 If voted in this rule would also affect the following rules C All dogs jumping less than 12" or measuring less than Remove 17" Add 18 from the withers must be measured at least three separate BFA Sanctioned Tournaments or at any gathering / meeting / event agreed by the Committee or at any day of a flyball tournament. 2.7 A dog deemed NOT MEASURED by the Head Judges/Measuring Officials will jump at the height of the smallest dog in its team (running, not standing by) if that dog measured less than Remove 17" Add 18 to between withers. Proposal 23 This proposal was amended at the AGM 1.10 Official heights cannot be contested and will normally be applicable for the life of the dog. ADD The BFA committee, on receipt of a complaint or concerns regarding measuring, reserve the right to challenge a dog s height and request further information and a re-measure, if deemed appropriate. Proposed by The BFA Committee Page 21 of 34

22 If the committee receive complaints/concerns regarding the measuring process they must be able to investigate thoroughly and make recommendations, which may include requesting the re-measure of dogs. This would only come into effect if complaints or concerns are raised. Discussion a dog who has a height card for 5 years and someone holds a grudge and the dog has built up muscle it may measure higher. only once per dog suggested once videos are in the process these can be reviewed in relation to a concern could it be that only complaints can be considered from members. Discussed about concerns from HJ/MO being acceptable added that HCC may notice anomalies. Amendment suggested Reworded proposal a. Official heights cannot be contested and will normally be applicable for the life of the dog. ADD The BFA committee, on receipt of a complaint from a member, or concerns from Head Judge/Measuring Official/Height Co-ordinator regarding measuring, reserve the right to challenge a dog s height and request further information and a re-measure, if deemed appropriate. Only one challenge per dog. Reworded proposal accepted by proposer Proposal 24 C.2. Measuring set up/environment 2.6 Aggression during measuring will not be tolerated and Rule Remove 5.19 Add D.5.1 will be observed Proposed by The BFA Committee Correction of references following reordering of rules Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 25 C.3. Appeals 3.3 If the Committee agree to a remeasure, arrangements will be made for two Head Judges/Measuring Officials, selected by the Committee, who have not previously Page 22 of 34

23 measured the dog and do not belong to the applicant s own Team, to measure the dog to confirm the height. Add- the re-measure will be videoed Proposed by The BFA Committee As the dogs height will then be determined by one final measure it is crucial to ensure that the measure has been carried out correctly and that both the measurers and the dogs owners are happy with the measure that was undertaken. Discussion: will the video equipment be provided by BFA rather than on phone if passed, equipment will be provided by BFA DOG WELFARE AND VETERINARY GUIDANCE Section D Proposal 26 This proposal was amended at the AGM D.1. General dog welfare 1.1 Owners have a Duty of care to the animals they keep REMOVE which is a legal phrase meaning that ADD under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, REMOVE owners have an obligation to do something. ADD This legislation REMOVE This means that a person has to look after REMOVE the animal s welfare ADD their animal s needs as well as ensure that it does not suffer. REMOVE Not only is it against the law to be cruel to an animal, you must also ensure that all the welfare needs of your animals are met. This includes the need: a. For a suitable environment (place to live) b. For a suitable diet c. To exhibit normal behaviour patterns d. To be housed with, or apart from, other animals REMOVE (if applicable) ADD (as appropriate) e. To be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease Proposed by Victoria Fraser Reworded to provide more clarity Discussion 1. Amendment due to comment from Rules Working Group to allow for any change in legislation Page 23 of 34

24 D.1. General dog welfare Owners have a Duty of care to the animals they keep REMOVE which is a legal phrase meaning that ADD under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, or any subsequent legislation regarding animal welfare, REMOVE owners have an obligation to do something. ADD This legislation REMOVE This means that a person has to look after REMOVE the animal s welfare ADD their animal s needs as well as ensure that it does not suffer. REMOVE Not only is it against the law to be cruel to an animal, you must also ensure that all the welfare needs of your animals are met. This includes the need: f. For a suitable environment (place to live) g. For a suitable diet h. To exhibit normal behaviour patterns i. To be housed with, or apart from, other animals REMOVE (if applicable) ADD (as appropriate) j. To be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease Reword accepted by proposer Proposal All members of BFA teams, whether registered or unregistered individuals, are forbidden to use electronic shock collars, electronic dummy collars or pinch/prong collars on the tournament grounds ADD (including racing rings, around the rings, camping, parking and exercise areas) at sanctioned tournaments. REMOVE The tournament grounds include racing rings, spectator, parking and camping areas. Any team/handler found to be in contravention of any of the above will be disqualified from the competition with the loss of all points and placing in that division and may be subject to further disciplinary action. Proposed by Victoria Fraser Reworded to provide more clarity. It is unlikely anyone would use such items but by it being in the rules it highlights the BFA desire to put dog welfare first. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 28 D.2. Lame dogs/recovering from surgery 2.1 Lame Dogs must not take part or continue to take part in a REMOVE competition ADD tournament. A Tournament Head Judge or Division Judge, in consultation with Page 24 of 34

25 the Tournament Organiser, may exclude a dog that in their opinion is not in a fit state to race. 2.2 Dogs recovering from surgery or requiring bandages ADD or support braces to protect an injury may not take part in a REMOVE competition ADD tournament. Bandages do not include coats, sweaters or stop pad protectors. Protective REMOVE covering ADD leg wrapping with cohesive dressing may ADD only be used as a preventative but may not be used to protect an existing injury. Proposed by Victoria Fraser Only physically able & fit dogs should be competing at tournaments. Yes protect the stopper pad from being burnt or injured with some bandage or a protective cover but if a dog requires a joint supporting it shouldn t be racing until that injury is fully healed. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal 29 D.4. Pregnant bitches and puppies 4.1 A Bitch that is or maybe Pregnant (whether the pregnancy has been confirmed or not) is not allowed to compete at sanctioned tournaments, starters competitions or fun events and for at least Remove: 8 Add: 10 weeks after giving birth. Proposed by Victoria Fraser While pups are sucking the level of the hormone prolactin is raised. This hormone causes muscles & ligaments to soften (which helps for giving birth) but increases the likelihood of musculoskeletal injury if performing physical activity. The hormone returns to normal levels after weaning has finished (roughly 7 weeks after giving birth). A week doesn t give much time for muscles to tone up & ligaments to strengthen before the bitch could be back competing. I think an extra 2 weeks gives time for the muscles & ligaments to return to full strength and for fitness to be regained before competing, therefore minimising injury risk. Discussion: no questions/comments Proposal Litters of puppies may not be ADD brought to, viewed at or purchased REMOVE or sold at a BFA tournament. ADD No puppy under 6 weeks old are to be brought to a Page 25 of 34